Laser Hair Removal Alternatives

There are many alternatives to laser hair removal. Many of these alternative methods enable people to minimize costs in comparison with the cost of laser hair removal. Among these alternatives are: waxing, threading, tweezing and chemical depilatories (creams and lotions).

Waxing is a very common alternative to laser hair removal. It achieves a longer-lasting effect in comparison to other alternatives. Waxing is a fast and easy process to have done. It is relatively inexpensive in comparison to laser hair removal prices. Waxing does have its downside though. Because the effects are not permanent, you will always be dealing with the unwanted hair. As you may imagine, you have to have hair growth present in order to participate in waxing. Typically the hair should be at least a quarter inch in length. For some, this nullifies the benefits of waxing because your main purpose was to not have the hair in the first place. No one wants the unsightly hair that needs to be grown in between waxes. Waxing also involves a degree of pain or discomfort, which many are looking to avoid.

Threading is a lesser-known method for removing hair. It is more common in the Middle East, India and Pakistan. It works by using a 100% cotton thread that is twisted and rolled along the surface of the skin. While the thread rolls across the skin, it entwines the hair in the thread. Then the thread is pulled away from the skin, lifting the hair out of the follicle. The skin usually reacts with a little redness and slight soreness. The results from threading are not permanent however, and require regular visits.

Tweezing is perhaps the most common method of hair removal in use today. Tweezing is more commonly used on smaller areas of the body, such as eyebrows, and is not normally a solution for large-scale hair removal. Tweezing involves using a tool known as a “tweezer.” Tweezers grab hold of the hair and allow the person to “pluck” the hair from the follicle. This process is very time consuming. The results of tweezing are also temporary and involve a measure of discomfort.

Several chemical creams are available that contain ingredients to dissolve hair. A thin coating of the chemical depilatory is spread on the surface of the skin, such as on the legs. Once it’s on, there is a waiting period to allow the cream to dissolve the hair. Any chemical depilation cream should be patch-tested first on the inside of the arm to make sure there are no allergic or sensitivity reactions. A chemical depilatory is generally not recommended for use on the upper lip and other sensitive areas. Because it is a chemical process, reactions can occur on the skin. These reactions can include swelling, burning, blisters, itching and redness. These creams only remove the hair at or slightly below skin level. Since the hair root is still there, hair will be visible again with in a few days.

Many people want to remove unwanted hair but seek alternatives because of the high laser hair removal cost. Remember, the hair removal alternatives may be cheaper now but consider the cost you may spend in the long run. Since none of these alternatives are permanent, you may end up spending more on supplies or treatments through out your life.

Laser Hair Removal Cost

There are many choices and methods available for removing unwanted hair. One of the methods growing in popularity is laser hair removal. It is preferred because the results are largely permanent, unfortunately it is also quite expensive. If you or someone you know wants laser hair removal but finds it too pricey, taking the time to “shop around” can save you money.

Although it’s important to look for discounts and reasonable prices, quality is not worth sacrificing. When shopping for affordable laser hair removal prices stay with a reputable clinic or spa. You definitely don’t want to put yourself in harm’s way or have a less than satisfactory result. Find out as much as you can about any clinic or spa that you are considering to ensure its credibility. One of the best ways to do your due diligence is to simply ask around. You may have a friend or family member who frequents a clinic or spa that can recommend a reputable choice.

 Once you’ve found a reputable clinic or spa, look for the discounts. For instance, there may be discounts available relating to economic pressures. Businesses that are just starting out may lower your price significantly if you offer yourself as a testimonial. Some spas offer specials for new clients and for referrals. You can find out about the various discounts that may be available by calling clinics and doing some online research at their websites. This takes a little bit of time, but can really prove to save money in the long run!

Recently a new trend has started among laser hair removal clinics and spas.  Instead of charging a flat rate for a specific area to be treated, now they just charge a monthly fee.  For example, traditionally you would pay around 30 to 70 dollars to have one treatment done, depending on the area and size.  The next time you go in, you would pay another 30 to 70 dollars to treat that same area.  With the new method of payment, it is more like a gym membership.  You pay a monthly rate and then treat whatever area you like.  The number of treatments for that specific month are dependant on the clinic or spa.  Not all clinics offer this option, so be sure to ask when calling. 

 Finally, when you have narrowed down your choices to a few particular clinics, schedule a consultation with each practitioner. Find out how many repeat treatments will likely be needed, what kind of equipment will be used and how experienced the practitioner is, in order to get a true comparison.

 After doing some careful laser hair removal shopping and research, you will have found a nice combination of reputable treatment at an affordable price. Happy shopping!

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